DND hails US pledge to boost defense, economic ties | Global News

DND hails US pledge to boost defense, economic ties

/ 09:21 PM June 08, 2012

Dr. Peter Paul Galvez. Photo by FRANCES MANGOSING

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of National Defense on Friday welcomed the United States pledge to help the Philippines step up its defenses and boost economic cooperation.

DND spokesman Dr. Peter Paul Galvez said the resolution was “a restatement of commitment” of the US even as he denied it was linked to the Philippines territorial dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Article continues after this advertisement

“Definitely this would concretize the commitment of US government to the Philippine government working together,” Galvez told reporters in a press briefing.

FEATURED STORIES

On Tuesday, US Senator for Indiana Senator Richard Lugar  introduced a resolution commemorating the 60th anniversary of the United States – Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty

“The United States – Philippines relationship represents shared sacrifice in defense of freedom. While historically we have worked well together on multiple fronts, it is necessary that the two countries discern new ways to expand trade, account for their mutual defense and promote stability throughout the region,” Lugar said.

Article continues after this advertisement

The cooperation comes as the Philippines — a US treaty ally — sees particularly tense relations with China, which has butted heads with a number of its neighbors in recent years over territorial disputes in strategic waters.

Article continues after this advertisement

Friction escalated in April when Chinese and Philippine vessels approached the Scarborough Shoal, which lies near the main Philippine island of Luzon. Manila says the rock formation falls within its exclusive economic zone, but China claims the shoal along with nearly all of the West Philippine Sea.

“We’ve had long relationship with the US…even before certain events took place. We’re looking forward to enhancing relationship with other countries,” Galvez said. With Agence France-Presse

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

For comprehensive coverage, in-depth analysis, visit our special page for West Philippine Sea updates. Stay informed with articles, videos, and expert opinions.

TAGS: Foreign affairs, Military, Scarborough Shoal, South China Sea, West Philippine Sea

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.